Roland Kallenborn, UArctic Chair, leads newly established Thematic Network RAMWA

Coordinated by UArctic Chair in Arctic Environmental Pollution Research, Roland Kallenborn from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), this network brings together leading experts to address the environmental challenges posed by mining activities in the Arctic region.

RAMWA aims to develop innovative, sustainable strategies for removing and restoring land affected by mine waste, focusing on maintaining the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem for future generations. The network includes a wide array of international partners from Canada, Germany, Australia, China, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway. Their interdisciplinary collaboration will focus on environmental remediation, re-wilding, and bioremediation techniques to mitigate the environmental impact of mining.

This initiative aligns with the growing urgency to protect the Arctic environment as global warming and industrial development intensify. By integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific expertise, RAMWA seeks to offer solutions that are not only environmentally sustainable but also culturally and socially respectful.

RAMWA is a direct outcome of the Fredrik Paulsen workshop on Bioremediation in Arctic mining, held last September at Yukon in Whitehorse. The network will act as a platform for researchers to exchange knowledge, collaborate on international projects, and contribute to sustainable mining practices that benefit both the Arctic ecosystem and local communities.The network’s planned activities include joint research workshops, publications, and the development of specialized educational programs for future Arctic mining experts.